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America’s Favorite Actors in Every State

Hollywood is at the heart of American pop culture, and the industry is constantly changing. Impactful.news looks at the most recent statistics to give you a state-by-state look at the most popular actors in America in 2022.

Impactful analyzed 2022 Q4 data from YouGov to find the 20 most popular all-time actors in the U.S. To find each state’s favorite actor, we analyzed 2022 Google Trends data for these 20 actors to determine the most popular in each state for the past year.

YouGov’s rating agency surveys people on a daily basis across a variety of areas—such as culture, politics, and business—to determine what people like and dislike.

YouGov’s overall positive opinion scores represent the percentage of people who had a positive response out of those surveyed, and responses are broken down by generation—baby boomers, Gen Xers, and millennials.

The most popular all-time actor by a landslide was, interestingly enough, Danny Devito, who was the favorite of eleven states. We gathered several other interesting findings from the data.

America's Top 20 Actors

1. Morgan Freeman

  • Fame: 97%
  • Popularity: 83%
  • Most Popular Movie According to IMDB: The Shawshank Redemption

2. Robin Williams

  • Fame: 96%
  • Popularity: 82%
  • Most Popular Movie According to IMDB: "Good Will Hunting" (1997)

3. Denzel Washington

  • Fame: 95%
  • Popularity: 80%
  • Most Popular Movie According to IMDB: "The Little Things" (2021)

4. Michael J. Fox

  • Fame: 94%
  • Popularity: 77%
  • Most Popular Movie According to IMDB: "Back to the Future" (1985)

5. Keanu Reeves

  • Fame: 97%
  • Popularity: 77%
  • Most Popular Movie According to IMDB: "John Wick" (2014)

6. Danny DeVito

  • Fame: 95%
  • Popularity: 77%
  • Most Popular Movie According to IMDB: "Matilda" (1996)

7. Tom Hanks

  • Fame: 96%
  • Popularity: 76%
  • Most Popular Movie According to IMDB: "Elvis" (2022)

8. Harrison Ford

  • Fame: 95%
  • Popularity: 76%
  • Most Popular Movie According to IMDB: "Blade Runner 2049" (2017)

9. Samuel L. Jackson

  • Fame: 94%
  • Popularity: 75%
  • Most Popular Movie According to IMDB: "Pulp Fiction" (1994)

10. Anthony Hopkins

  • Fame: 92%
  • Popularity: 75%
  • Most Popular Movie According to IMDB: "The Silence of the Lambs" (1991)

11. James Earl Jones

  • Fame: 91%
  • Popularity: 75%
  • Most Popular Movie According to IMDB: "Star Wars: Episode IV - A New Hope" (1977)

12. Jack Nicholson

  • Fame: 96%
  • Popularity: 73%
  • Most Popular Movie According to IMDB: "The Departed" (2006)

13. Dwayne Johnson

  • Fame: 95%
  • Popularity: 73%
  • Most Popular Movie According to IMDB: "Black Adam" (2022)

14. Bruce Willis

  • Fame: 95%
  • Popularity: 73%
  • Most Popular Movie According to IMDB: "Pulp Fiction" (1994)

15. Al Pacino

  • Fame: 94%
  • Popularity: 73%
  • Most Popular Movie According to IMDB: "The Godfather" (1972)

16. Jackie Chan

  • Fame: 96%
  • Popularity: 72%
  • Most Popular Movie According to IMDB: "Rush Hour" (1998)

17. Dick Van Dyke

  • Fame: 93%
  • Popularity: 72%
  • Most Popular Movie According to IMDB: "Mary Poppins" (1964)

18. Eddie Murphy

  • Fame: 96%
  • Popularity: 72%
  • Most Popular Movie According to IMDB: "You People" (2023)

19. Kurt Russell

  • Fame: 93%
  • Popularity: 72%
  • Most Popular Movie According to IMDB: "Once Upon a Time in Hollywood" (2019)

20. Hugh Jackman

  • Fame: 92%
  • Popularity: 72%
  • Most Popular Movie According to IMDB: "Prisoners" (2013)

Favorite Actors in Each State

Alabama

1. Samuel L. Jackson
2. Eddie Murphy
3. Denzel Washington

Samuel L. Jackson wins as Alabama's top actor for his appeal to general audiences. At 74, Jackson's iconic voice and commanding presence make him a beloved figure in Alabama and with audiences worldwide.

Alaska

1. Jackie Chan
2. Tom Hanks
3. Jack Nicholson

Jackie Chan is a Hong Kong-born actor, director, and cultural icon around the world. His unique blend of martial arts, acrobatics, and physical comedy gives him the appeal among audiences of the "Last Frontier."

Arizona

1. Bruce Willis
2. Dick Van Dyke
3. Dwayne Johnson

Arizona is a state of 7.4 million people who love Bruce Willis for his versatile drama, action, and comedy skills. The actor has also worked as a producer alongside Quentin Tarantino and M. Night Shyamalan.

Arkansas

1. Bruce Willis
2. Eddie Murphy
3. James Earl Jones

Bruce Willis won the hearts of Arkansas's 3 million people in 2022. Having starred in or produced more than 100 action, comedy, and drama movies and TV shows, his wide range and unique storytelling ability make him a favorite in the state.

California

1. Jackie Chan
2. Tom Hanks
3. Al Pacino

California's 39.5 million people are fans of Jackie Chan. The Hong Kong-born actor, director, and martial artist has appeared in over 150 films. Chan's iconic characters and physical comedy appeal to California's wide audiences.

Colorado

1. Danny DeVito
2. Tom Hanks
3. James Earl Jones

Danny DeVito won the hearts of Colorado's 5.8 million people in 2022. The actor's comedic abilities, short stature, and versatile range contribute to his popularity among Coloradans.

Connecticut

1. Danny DeVito
2. Al Pacino
3. Bruce Willis

Danny DeVito didn't just win the Midwest in 2022; he also stole the audiences of Connecticut. In this state, DeVito is known for his iconic roles and classic productions, such as "Pulp Fiction" (1994), "Matilda" (1996), and "Erin Brokovich" (2000).

Delaware

1. Dick Van Dyke
2. Bruce Willis
3. Denzel Washington

Delaware is home to just 1 million people. In such a small state, it's no wonder Dick Van Dyke's timeless characters are so beloved. Over the course of his 76-year-long career, Van Dyke has starred in or produced over 80 films and TV shows.

District of Colombia

1. Denzel Washington
2. Samuel L. Jackson
3. Eddie Murphy

Home to a small population of 700,000, the nation's capital has big love for acclaimed actor, director, and producer Denzel Washington--and not just because he shares the city's name. For over 30 years, Washington has been known as one of the best actors of his time.

Florida

1. Bruce Willis
2. Tom Hanks
3. Dwayne Johnson

Bruce Willis took the win for favorite actor in Florida, which is home to 21.5 million people. Willis's films and TV shows, especially his iconic role in the "Die Hard" series, make him a favorite among Florida's action-loving audiences.

Georgia

1. Denzel Washington
2. Samuel L. Jackson
3. Eddie Murphy

Denzel Washington's acting skills have won over audiences all over the world, but especially in Georgia. The state's love for the actor likely stems from the fact that it has starred in some of his most popular movies, "Glory" and "The Manchurian Candidate."

Hawaii

1. Keanu Reeves
2. Dwayne Johnson
3. Jackie Chan

Hawaii's love for actor Keanu Reeves is deeply reciprocated by the acclaimed actor, who actually spent part of his childhood growing up in the islands. Locals consider him an honorary Hawaiian, and an icon of the state's laid-back and inclusive culture.

Idaho

1. Danny DeVito
2. Bruce Willis
3. Tom Hanks

Danny DeVito has won the hearts of audiences across the globe, but most especially among Idaho's 1.9 million residents. His iconic characters and hilarious performances resonate with the Gem State locals.

Illinois

1. Dick Van Dyke
2. Bruce Willis
3. Tom Hanks

Dick Van Dyke's lovable characters and on-screen gimmicks have made audiences laugh for over 76 years. In Illinois, his timeless performances are still highly appreciated by the state's 12.67 million residents.

Indiana

1. Dick Van Dyke
2. Bruce Willis
3. Michael J. Fox

The Midwest's affinity for actor Dick Van Dyke extends to multiple states, and Indiana is no exception. Here, the state's 6.8 million people also continue to find charm in the actor's many classic films and TV series.

Iowa

1. Danny DeVito
2. Tom Hanks
3. Bruce Willis

Danny DeVito's breakout role in the late 70s TV show "Taxi" had audiences hooked. From there, his comedic and timeless portrayals quickly won over audiences across the country, including those among Iowa's 3.2 million residents.

Kansas

1. Tom Hanks
2. Danny DeVito
3. Bruce Willis

Tom Hanks has a dedicated fan following among Kansas's 2.9 million residents. Known for his acting skills and charming personality, it's no wonder Tom Hanks has won over the Sunflower State.

Kentucky

1. Dick Van Dyke
2. James Earl Jones
3. Tom Hanks

Among Kentucky's 4.5 million residents, the classic performances of all-American actor Dick Van Dyke have made him a long-time favorite. His most popular films and TV series include "Mary Poppins" and "The Dick Van Dyke Show."

Louisiana

1. Eddie Murphy
2. Denzel Washington
3. Samuel L. Jackson

Louisiana's Eddie Murphy fans appreciate his unique style of comedy and memorable roles. From movies like "Coming to America" to "Beverly Hills Cop," his iconic performances have continued to make him a fan favorite over the years.

Maine

1. Dick Van Dyke
2. Danny DeVito
3. Tom Hanks

Among Maine's 1.3 million residents, Dick Van Dyke has won as a favorite actor in 2022. His timeless roles and charming on-screen presence have held him among the most beloved actors in the nation.

Maryland

1. Eddie Murphy
2. Samuel L. Jackson
3. James Earl Jones

Maryland is home to over 6.1 million people whose hearts were won over by Eddie Murphy in 2022. The actor's lovable and hilarious on-screen performances make him a top favorite among residents of the Old Line State.

Massachusetts

1. Danny DeVito
2. Bruce Willis
3. Al Pacino

The Bay State is home to nearly 7 million people, the majority of whom would proudly label themselves Danny DeVito fans. The actor's wide comedic range and his artistic eye have made him a fan favorite in Massachusetts and beyond.

Michigan

1. Bruce Willis
2. James Earl Jones
3. Dick Van Dyke

Of 10 million Michiganians, a significant number are Bruce Willis fans. The 67-year-old actor has won over audiences with his impressive acting skills and charming on-screen presence since the early 1980s.

Minnesota

1. Danny DeVito
2. Tom Hanks
3. Dwayne Johnson

Minnesota's 5.7 million residents are big fans of actor and producer Danny DeVito, who has starred in or produced at least 70 films in the course of his career.

Mississippi

1. Morgan Freeman
2. James Earl Jones
3. Eddie Murphy

Morgan Freeman is known for his deep timbre voice and versatile acting range. Among Mississippi's 2.9 million population, the timeless actor won out for favorite actor in 2022.

Missouri

1. Dick Van Dyke
2. Dwayne Johnson
3. Tom Hanks

Otherwise known as "The Show-Me State," Missouri is home to 6.1 million people. Dick Van Dyke won for favorite actor in 2022 because of his acting skills and timeless charm.

Montana

1. Robin Williams
2. Tom Hanks
3. Anthony Hopkins

Montana is home to 1.1 million people whose favorite star for 2022 is Robin Williams. The highly acclaimed actor has starred in or produced over 74 projects in the course of his career.

Nebraska

1. Danny DeVito
2. Bruce Willis
3. Tom Hanks

Danny DeVito won out the heart of "The Cornhusker State" in 2022 with his iconic performances and unforgettable on-screen characters.

Nevada

1. Jackie Chan
2. Bruce Willis
3. Danny DeVito

Nevada is home to 3.1 million people whose favorite actor is Jackie Chan. The acclaimed martial artist and comedic icon charmed over The Battle Born State in 2022.

New Hampshire

1. Michael J. Fox
2. Danny DeVito
3. Tom Hanks

New Hampshire took it back to the future with their top actor for 2022. Michael J. Fox's timeless performance and on-screen lovability won the hearts of the Granite State's 1.3 million residents.

New Jersey

1. Bruce Willis
2. Danny DeVito
3. Al Pacino

New Jersey is home to 9.2 million people. In 2022, the Garden State's favorite Hollywood actor was the one and only Bruce Willis.

New Mexico

1. Tom Hanks
2. Bruce Willis
3. Jack Nicholson

Tom Hanks won for most beloved actor among New Mexico's 2.1 million residents in 2022. The actor's on-screen charm and versatile acting skills make him one of the best actors of his generation.

New York

1. Al Pacino
2. Hugh Jackman
3. Bruce Willis

New York chose an old name for its top actor in 2022. Al Pacino is known for his iconic roles in "The Godfather" and "The Irishman," and his signature New York accent is unforgettable.

North Carolina

1. Bruce Willis
2. Dwayne Johnson
3. Dick Van Dyke

North Carolina is home to over 10.5 million people. Between his on-screen presence and his consistently iconic performances, Bruce Willis wins the Tar Heel State in 2022.

North Dakota

1. Danny DeVito
2. Kurt Russell
3. Dwayne Johnson

In North Dakota, otherwise known as "the Flickertail State," the population is small--just over 774,000--but the love for actor Danny DeVito is big.

Ohio

1. Tom Hanks
2. Bruce Willis
3. Dick Van Dyke

Ohio, or "The Buckeye State," is home to 11.7 million people whose top actor for 2022 is Tom Hanks. The actor's on-screen performances and timeless charm have wowed audiences for decades.

Oklahoma

1. Kurt Russell
2. Tom Hanks
3. Bruce Willis

Kurt Russell's impressive acting career has spanned over 40 years. In all that time, it's no wonder that he won the hearts of Oklahoma's 4 million residents in 2022.

Oregon

1. Tom Hanks
2. Danny DeVito
3. Robin Wiliams

Oregon is home to 4.2 million people whose top pick for actors in 2022 was Tom Hanks. The cultural icon is known for his memorable roles in films like "Castaway" and "Toy Story."

Pennsylvania

1. Bruce Willis
2. Tom Hanks
3. Danny DeVito

Bruce Willis's outstanding on-screen performances and unforgettable characters won out in Pennsylvania, a state home to nearly 13 million people.

Rhode Island

1. Danny DeVito
2. Bruce Willis
3. Michael J. Fox

In "The Ocean State," Danny DeVito came out on top once again, stealing Rhode Island's audiences from Providence to Newport.

South Carolina

1. Eddie Murphy
2. Samuel L. Jackson
3. James Earl Jones

South Carolina's 5.1 million people are big fans of Eddie Murphy. It's no surprise that the actor is a top pick for 2022, given his witty performance and comedic on-screen presence.

South Dakota

1. Tom Hanks
2. Bruce Willis
3. James Earl Jones

Tom Hanks won among South Dakota's favorite actors in 2022. His compelling performances and general appeal make him a fan favorite across the board.

Tennessee

1. Dwayne Johnson
2. Bruce Willis
3. Samuel L. Jackson

Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson is known for his insane comedic ability as well as his insane physical strength. Tennessee's nearly 7 million residents would all agree that the actor deserves the #1 spot for top actors.

Texas

1. Tom Hanks
2. Dwayne Johnson
3. Bruce Willis

Texas, or "The Lonestar State," is home to a whopping 29.5 million people. It's no surprise that Tom Hanks, who played the beloved Texas cowboy Woody in the animated Pixar film "Toy Story," won out as the state's favorite actor of 2022.

Utah

1. Danny DeVito
2. Hugh Jackman
3. Tom Hanks

Danny DeVito came in at #1 for favorite actors among Utahians. The actor is loved for his hilarious on-screen performances and memorable characters.

Vermont

1. Danny DeVito
2. Bruce Willis
3. Michael J. Fox

Vermont is home to only 645,500 people, but the state's movie-going audiences were won over big time by Danny DeVito in 2022.

Virginia

1. James Earl Jones
2. Dwayne Johnson
3. Bruce Willis

James Earl Jones is known for his resonating voice and recognizable timbre. Among Virginians, the iconic actor won out among favorite actors in 2022.

Washington

1. Danny DeVito
2. Tom Hanks
3. Dwayne Johnson

In Washington's corner of the US, Danny DeVito has won over audiences with his timeless comedic appeal and iconic on-screen characters.

West Virginia

1. Bruce Willis
2. Dick Van Dyke
3. Michael J. Fox

In West Virginia, Bruce Willis's array of iconic performances have high appeal. The state's 1.7 million residents were won over by his versatile range and classic charm.

Wisconsin

1. Dick Van Dyke
2. Danny DeVito
3. Tom Hanks

Wisconsin is home to 5.8 million people, many of whom are Dick Van Dyke fans. The 97-year-old actor has won over the hearts of American audiences for over 70 years.

Wyoming

1. Harrison Ford
2. Bruce Willis
3. Kurt Russell

The "Star Wars" and "Indiana Jones" star Harrison Ford won for favorite actor in Wyoming. "The Cowboy State" fittingly chooses its favorite actors for their gun-slinging abilities and choice of headware.

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See also  Top Family-Friendly Films in Each State

By Impactful.news Staff

Our team founded Impactful.news to provide publishers with engaging, data-driven stories. We strive to combine data analysis with rich editorial insights.